Sanef slates Cricket SA’s ‘bullying’ of journalists

THE SA National Editors’ Forum (Sanef) has strongly rejected attempts by Cricket SA (CSA) to intimidate journalists critical of the sport’s governing body by revoking their accreditations to cover the game at the country’s major stadiums.

Sanef said the CSA’s actions would have a chilling effect on the media’s ability to cover all aspects of cricket, not just what happened on the field but also behind closed doors, where the sport was administered.

“CSA’s actions smack of bullying, are unacceptable and must be fiercely resisted to preserve the independence of the media and journalists’ ability to report without fear or favour,” Sanef said.

On Sunday, five journalists were informed they were on a list circulated to all stadiums in the country, including Newlands in Cape Town and the Wanderers in Joburg, and that they would not be granted access to report on the Mzansi Super League.

The five were Stuart Hess (The Star), Ken Borland (The Citizen), Neil Manthorp (SABC), Firdose Moonda (ESPN Cricinfo) and Telford Vice (Cricbuzz. com). Their accreditation was seemingly reinstated on Sunday and some met CSA officials at Newlands.

Yesterday, CSA chief executive Thabang Moroe admitted on Talk Radio 702 that the body had revoked the journalists’ accreditation as it was unhappy about their reporting on the body and the sport.

Moroe’s statements were deeply concerning, said Sanef. “Journalists must be allowed to do their job of holding those in power accountable without fear of intimidation or they will be prevented from doing their job.

“Moroe and CSA have a duty to respect the independence of journalists without resorting to bully tactics. This is bound to have the opposite effect of what CSA and Moroe would want to achieve.”

Sanef said the CSA, and sport bodies as well as sponsors in general, should refrain from trying to influence coverage through intimidation tactics.

“Accreditation should also not be unilaterally withdrawn without proper and transparent consultation with news organisations.

“The way CSA has managed its conflict with the media is also of concern considering that South Africa will be hosting England for a much-anticipated Test series in less than a month.”

Sanef called on the CSA to apologise to the journalists involved, to ensure that they have access to stadiums and to respect the independence of the media.